Paul Gallen has teed off at Sonny Bill Williams, describing his rival’s boxing career as an “absolute sham” ahead of their long-awaited bout.

The pair have been talking trash for the better part of a decade, but will finally set foot in the ring together later this year for a heavyweight clash.

Williams had pushed for two-minute rounds, which Gallen initially pushed back against, before the Sharks legend finally budged to the Kiwi star’s demands.

Sonny Bill Williams and Paul Gallen.  Getty/Nine

After the NRL greats finally put pen to paper, Williams lit the fuse by claiming Gallen had reneged on a potential fight years ago.

Those comments – as expected – didn’t go down well with the former NSW skipper.

“That’s an absolute sham, he’s a disgrace,” Gallen told 2GB’s Continuous Call Team.

“Everything he’s done, there’s no honour in what he’s done in boxing.”

Gallen (15-2-1) has enjoyed a stellar career in the ring, defeating the likes of Mark Hunt and Lucas Browne, but retired a number of years ago.

However, the allure of taking on Williams was enough to get the 43-year-old to dust off the gloves and earn one last mega payday.

Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, cross-code international Williams vowed to give Gallen “a good hiding” when they finally square off.

“I win because I’m a better boxer,” Williams said.

Sonny Bill Williams. Getty

“I win because the only way he can beat me is to knock me out, and I don’t think he has the power. That’s the honest truth. I’m a better boxer, a better athlete.

“But the one thing he brings to the table – and I’ve always said this, I respect Paul for what he has done in the ring – he’s a brawler and he’ll come [at me].

“I still want bragging rights, I still want to give him a good hiding.

“He talks too much, I’m going to smash his face.”

Williams (9-1) hasn’t competed since his loss to the aforementioned Hunt in 2022.